Back to School Whats New? Whats the Same?

 Back to School

My kids have been back at school almost two weeks now. Soon,  the Pico Union S.A.Y. Yes! after school program at the 1st EV Free Church of Los Angeles will be back as well. I am looking forward to the opportunities that will offer. Meeting new kids, hearing from others about what they have been up to. What’s new? What’s the same?

What’s new? More charter schools, the mayor’s office now controls several schools directly, if I understand the recent news correctly. 

What’s the same?

10th Street elementary School’s API was 643, the state average was 772.

47% of 5th grade students scored below basic in English language arts

37% of  5th grade students scored below basic in Mathematics

48% of 5th grade students scored below basic in Science

Belmont High School

63% of 11th graders scored below basic in english Language arts

83% of 11th graders scored below basic in general mathematics

(that is testing them against grades 6 & 7 standards in math)

State Results

http://star.cde.ca.gov/star2008/Viewreport.asp

The District spin

http://notebook.lausd.net/pls/ptl/docs/PAGE/CA_LAUSD/FLDR_LAUSD_NEWS/FLDR_ANNOUNCEMENTS/STAR08.PDF

There is a lot of opportunity and a lot of work to be done.

What works; less TV, less online entertainment, more parent involvement and more structured after-school programs that offer mentoring and assistance with homework.

One hour a week doing high school math, or just reading to a 5th grader, come on you can do it. Check in with your local school and ask them to direct you to an opportunity.

SayYes! Pico Union http://gallery.me.com/comminsights#100089